25 reasons I love Nova Scotia

I’m a proud Nova Scotian and I always welcome the opportunity to talk about my home province. So whenever someone complains to me about this, that or the other thing, I quickly point out that while we may face problems, I believe we are pretty darned lucky to live where we live.

Some time back, I devised a list of 25 reasons why I love Nova Scotia and so, instead of engaging in a negative debate about what’s wrong with the province as that discussion has already been held way too many times, I feel it would be more productive to present that list again.

I invite you to review my list and then to let me know what you think. Let’s see if you agree with my observations or if you can come up with other points that I’ve overlooked. Feel free to pass along your ideas.

1. Generally speaking, Nova Scotians are kind, caring, generous and supportive of others.

2. Neighbours are willing to help their neighbours, especially those who are less fortunate or those who may have fallen onto hard times.

3. In comparison to other locations, Nova Scotia is a safe place to live and raise a family.

4. Unspoiled beauty abounds in Nova Scotia.

5. The natural, pristine environments in Nova Scotia are second to none.

6. Our rich and diverse heritage creates an interesting setting to live and raise a family.

7. The eclectic mix of cultures creates a diverse and rich society.

8. The resiliency of the people to keep on fighting in the face of adversity and seemingly insurmountable odds has always been an inspiration to me.

9. The ingenuity of people to create their own solutions to their problems usually spawns great ideas.

10. The can-do attitude that permeates the entire province is often contagious.

11. The determination that has pulled the province through some tough times and will do so again is palpable.

12. The unique and traditional food we enjoy such as Rappie pie, blueberry grunt, sauerkraut and Lunenburg pudding offers something for everyone.

13. The abundance of folklore and traditions add layers to our lives.

14. The ease with which rural and urban communities meld together makes living in Nova Scotia a unique experience.

15. The natural talent that abounds in Nova Scotia most notably in the arts is truly inspirational.

16. The fact that Nova Scotia is a natural habitat for so many birds and wild animals and further that as a society we place great emphasis on protecting their habitats.

17. For the most part and despite the occasional occurrence that draws negative attention, the majority of Nova Scotians are tolerant and accepting of people who are “different.”

18. Nova Scotia is the cradle of democracy and freedom of speech in North America, something for which we should all be proud.

19. Nova Scotia has produced a long line up of outstanding and distinguished political, business and civic leaders throughout its history that should inspire us all.

20. Even though the weather can be harsh at times, by and large it is one of the most moderate regions in the country.

21. We live in a place of relative safety free of exploding bombs, errant bullets and dissidents wanting to do us harm.

22. Nova Scotia is well positioned to provide any type of outdoor experience one desires, from experiencing the ocean or a freshwater lake, to enjoying the ski slopes and the inland, wooded regions.

23. Nova Scotia has a diversified economy that has been built on natural resources, agriculture, construction, industrial and the arts that provided many opportunities to both attract and build success.

24. I like the fact that Nova Scotia is one of the oldest regions of Canada and as such that gives us bragging rights that the roots of our great nation begin right here.

25. And finally, I am proud and happy to call Nova Scotia my home because my family roots and those of my wife’s family are firmly planted in the province. It’s also the place where we raised our two wonderful children, so as our home the province is an important link to our past and future.

And so, there you have it folks. A list of 25 reasons why I’m a proud Nova Scotian and you know most of these reasons can be adapted to anyone’s list. The real message here, as far as I’m concerned, is that those of us who are fortunate to live, work and play in Nova Scotia are, indeed, lucky. The real tragedy is that many of us take these qualities for granted, or at least that’s the view from here.

Vernon Oickle was born and raised in Liverpool where he continues to reside with his family. He has worked for more than 30 years in community newspapers on the South Shore and is the author of 23 books.